By Phyllis Naegeli1 Jamie sat on the porch. She twirled her dark brown hair and stared at the ground.2 Mom came out the front door. She sat down next to Jamie. "What's wrong?"3 "Nothing," she said with a shrug.4 Mom grinned. "When you twirl your hair, I know something is wrong."5 Jamie looked at Mom. "Really?"6 "Yes," said Mom. "Now tell me what is bothering you."7 A slight grimace crossed Jamie's face. "I met Michael, the boy next door, today."8 "That's wonderful," said Mom.9 "I don't know if it is," said Jamie, twirling her hair faster.10 "Why?"11 "Because he's deaf," said Jamie.12 Mom looked surprised. "Why does that bother you?"